Program Overview
In conformity with
Dar Al-Hekma University’s mission of "Graduating leaders and entrepreneurs who embody the values of the university by providing an educational environment that encourages development, creativity, scientific research, and community service.", the Department of Architecture strives to adequately prepare distinguished leaders in the field of architecture and responsible citizens in the community and beyond.
The department provides quality technical education that integrates theory and practice with a foundation in the arts and sciences. The Bachelor of Architecture program expands the University’s mission and seeks to instill in its students and prepare them for living in a globally interconnected world. As opportunities arise, we hope to participate in international student competitions and team up with colleagues from abroad with shared interests.
In 2008, Dar Al-Hekma approached the University of Colorado Denver (UCD) to assist in developing the Architecture Program. For almost eight months (November 2008 to August 2010), a team from UCD worked on developing the curriculum. During this time, there were constant amendments and developments based on discussions between the UCD team and the University’s architecture and interior design team to ensure that the curriculum's environmental, contextual, and cultural qualities remained relevant to the particular context of the Kingdom. In 2018, the department launched its
Master of Architecture Program.
We also strive, through our design studios, to instill in our students a global awareness and knowledge about architectural practice and challenges in other parts of the world. To generate a rich body of ideas, questions, and design criteria and foster intensive individual and collective learning, Thus, each student would be exposed to a wide range of paradigmatic design solutions, several of which will always represent work in other parts of the world to illustrate differences in cultural, political, socio-economic, climatic, and other conditions. Besides, the university's
undergraduate scholarships program hopes to make studying architecture more accessible for those with limited financial resources so that all students can have the opportunity to develop their skills in this important field.
Program Mission
To graduate professionals in architecture and equip them with the necessary knowledge and skills, focusing on sustainable design while preserving the cultural and aesthetic values of Saudi Arabia.
Program Goals
The vision and goals of DAH University are being followed in the architecture students' and graduates' outcomes and performances. The Department of Architecture prepares young women to assume leadership positions in the design profession in local, regional, and international communities.
- Expand and diversify the University’s academic programs, emphasizing research and graduate programs and vigorously preparing our graduates for a seamless transition into the workforce.
- Engage students in meaningful co-curricular experiences and provide robust support to produce confident, well-rounded graduates ready to contribute to the economic and cultural vitality of the Kingdom.
- Develop new facilities to accommodate enrollment growth and provide the advanced technological infrastructure that supports a world-class education.
- Invest in our people to create satisfied and committed employees and develop the next generation of leaders to ensure the University’s vision becomes a reality.
- Ensure financial sustainability by securing new sources of revenue to support our mission.
Why Choose the Bachelor of Architecture Program at Dar Al-Hekma University?
- The program emphasizes understanding the cultural, religious, economic, environmental, and global contexts shaping architectural design and practice. This contextual focus ensures graduates are equipped to address diverse challenges in their future careers.
- Recognizing the significance of technical aspects in architecture, the program imparts a broad understanding of building practices, systems, and materials. This technical proficiency prepares students for the practical implementation of architectural designs while considering the environmental impact.
- The program strongly emphasizes developing a versatile skill set. From data analysis and comparison to sustainability application, problem-solving, and communication proficiency, students acquire a comprehensive skill toolkit essential for success in the field.
- With a commitment to sustainable practices, the program equips students and prepares them to apply knowledge proactively, preserving both built and natural environments. This aligns with the growing importance of environmentally conscious architecture in response to global conditions.
- The program instills a sense of professional responsibility through values such as lifelong learning and ethical conduct. Students are prepared to work both independently and collaboratively, setting the foundation for a successful and principled architectural career.
- Students benefit from a learning environment that values academic excellence, supported by experienced faculty members with expertise in various aspects of architecture, which ensures a high standard of education and mentorship.
- The University fosters an inclusive and supportive community, encouraging collaboration and interaction among students and faculty, Thus enhancing the overall learning experience..
Admission Requirements
Programs
| TOEFL Score
| Required Certificate Percentage
| Qudurat Test Score
| Othe Admission Requirement
|
|---|
Bachelor of Architecture
| 500
| 85%
| 65%
| Pass Math Test
( for litrerary track only)
|
For further details about admissions, click here
Learning Outcomes
Knowledge
- Identify the role of cultural, religious, economic, environmental, and global contexts in architectural design and practice.
- Recognize a broad range of technical aspects of the building practices, systems and materials, their role in the implementation of design, and their impact on the environment.
Skills
- Collect, examine, compare and contrast complex data with regard to culture and context.
- Effectively apply their knowledge on sustainability to preserve both built and natural environments in response to the changing global conditions.
- Demonstrate problem-solving skills and critical thinking methods.
- Communicate in various forms using traditional and digital mediums.
- Develop creative solutions and theories in the field of architecture.
Values
- Recognize the value of lifelong learning and professional ethics in the field of architecture while working individually or as part of a team.
- Engage in civic activities that are life-enriching and socially beneficial to the community as a responsible architect.
Plan of Study
|
Year One |
|---|
|
Semester – Fall |
Semester – Spring |
|---|
Course Code |
Course Title |
Credit
Hours |
Course Code |
Course Title |
Credit
Hours |
COMM 1301
| Communication Skills I | 3 | COMM 1302 | Communication Skills II | 3 |
| ICTC 1301 | Information & Communication Technology Concepts | 3 | EMOI 1201 | Emotional Intelligence | 2
|
ARTS XXXX
| Art & Design Elective | 2 | MATH 2302 | Geometry | 3
|
| MATH 1302 | Math for Architecture | 3 | PHYS 1301 | Introductory Physics | 3 |
| FDSA 1304 | Freehand Drawing | 3 | FDSA 1306 | Technical Drawing | 3 |
| FDSA 1305 | Architectural Design Fundamentals I | 3 | FDSA 1307 | Architectural Design Fundamentals II | 3 |
|
Total Credit Hours |
17 |
Total Credit Hours |
17 |
|
Year Two |
|---|
|
Semester – Fall |
Semester – Spring |
|---|
Course Code |
Course Title |
Credit
Hours |
Course Code |
Course Title |
Credit
Hours |
| BBBF 1101 | Basic Body & Brain Fitness | 1 | ISLS xxxx | Islamic Studies | 3
|
| ARAB xxxx | Arabic Studies | 3 | ENTR 3301 | Research Methods | 3 |
| HART 2301 | Visual Communication Theory | 3 | ARCH 3303 | Structural Design
| 3 |
| ARCH 2301 | History of World Architecture I | 3 | ARCH 3304 | Building Systems and Environmental Controls | 3
|
| ARCH 2305 | Materials and Methods of Building Construction I
| 3 | ARCH 3502
| Studio IV: Civic Design | 5
|
| ARCH 2306 | Digital Design for Architecture | 3
|
|
|
|
ARCH 2401
| Studio I: Form and Order in Cultural Context
| 4
| | | |
|
Total Credit Hours |
17 |
Total Credit Hours |
17 |
|---|
|
|---|
|
Year Three |
|---|
|
Semester – Fall |
Semester – Spring |
|---|
Course Code |
Course Title |
Credit
Hours |
Course Code |
Course Title |
Credit
Hours |
| ARAB XXXX | Arabic Studies | 3 | ITAI1201
| Introduction to Artificial Intelligence | 2
|
| ARCH 3305 | History of World Architecture II | 3 | ENTR 3301 | Entrepreneurship & Design Thinking | 3 |
| ARCH 3306 | Capstone I: Graphic
Design ThesisStructural Analysis
| 3
| ARCH 3303 | Structural Design | 3 |
ARCH 3307
| Computer Modeling and Rendering | 3
| ARCH 3304 | Building Systems and Environmental Controls | 3
|
ARCH 3501
| Studio III: Contextual Cultural and Environmental Design
| 5
| ARCH 3502
| Studio IV: Civic Design
| 5
|
|
Total Credit Hours |
17 |
Total Credit Hours |
16 |
|---|
|
Year Four |
|---|
|
Semester – Fall |
Semester – Spring |
|---|
Course Code |
Course Title |
Credit
Hours |
Course Code |
Course Title |
Credit
Hours |
| XXXX XXXX | Required General Ed Electives (HUMN, NASC,SBSC) | 3 | XXXX XXXX | Required General Ed Electives (HUMN, NASC,SBSC)
| 3 |
| ISLS XXXX | Islamic Studies
| 3 | XXXX XXXX | Free Elective | 3 |
ARCH 4303
| Theories of Contemporary Architecture | 3
| ARCH 4301 | Theory and Practice of Urban Form and Housing | 3 |
ARCH 4302
| Building Information Modeling & Documentation | 3
| ARCH 4502 | Studio VI: Comprehensive Design | 5
|
ARCH 4501
| Studio V: Mixed-Use Design
| 5
| XXXX XXXX
| Program/School Elective Course
| 3
|
|
Total Credit Hours |
17 |
Total Credit Hours |
17 |
|---|
|
Year Five(5) |
|---|
|
Semester – Fall |
Semester – Spring |
|---|
Course Code |
Course Title |
Credit
Hours |
Course Code |
Course Title |
Credit
Hours |
| ISLS xxxx | Islamic Studies | 2
| ISLS XXXX
| Islamic Studies
| 3
|
ENTR 3301
| Entrepreneurship & Design Thinking
| 2
| XXXX XXXX
| General Education Elective
| 2 |
BARC XXXX
| Arch Program Elective 3
| 5
| BARC 5509
| Architectural Design Studio 10 : Graduation Project 2
| 5 |
BARC 5508
| Architectural Design Studio 9 : Graduation Project 1
| 3
|
|
Total Credit Hours |
14 |
Total Credit Hours |
10 |
Career Prospects
The program equips students with the necessary skills that qualify them for a variety of career paths/jobs in the market including, but not limited to:
- Architectural Designer: Works on the conceptualization and design of architectural projects, applying creativity and technical knowledge to bring innovative ideas to life.
- Architectural Technologist: Focuses on the technical aspects of architectural projects, contributing to the development of construction drawings, specifications, and technical details.
- Building Information Modeling (BIM) Specialist: Utilizes advanced digital technologies to create 3D models and simulations, enhancing collaboration and efficiency in architectural projects.
- Construction Project Manager: Oversees the planning, coordination, and execution of construction projects, ensuring they are completed on time, within budget, and according to design specifications.
- Heritage Conservationist: Specializes in the preservation and restoration of historical and cultural landmarks, ensuring their protection for future generations.
- Architectural Researcher: Contributes to the advancement of architectural knowledge through research, exploring new materials, technologies, and design methodologies.
- Visualization Specialist: Creates visual representations of architectural designs using computer-aided design (CAD) software, helping stakeholders better understand and visualize proposed projects.
- Facilities Manager: Oversees the maintenance and operation of buildings, ensuring they function optimally and meet the needs of their occupants.
- Community Development Officer: Collaborates with communities to develop and implement architectural projects that enhance the quality of life and contribute to sustainable development.
